You cannot build a tablet the way you build a desktop or laptop
Tablets are not assembled from individual components like a PC. The processor, memory, storage, and display are soldered directly to the motherboard during manufacturing, and the battery is glued into the case. There is no consumer tablet kit, no standard parts list, and no way to swap components after purchase. If you want a custom tablet, your options are limited to choosing a model that matches your needs, modifying an existing tablet after you buy it, or learning enough about tablet internals to repair or upgrade one yourself — which requires specialized tools and voids the warranty.
The closest you can get to "building" a tablet is understanding what components matter, choosing a tablet with those specs, and then customizing the software or making minor hardware modifications. This guide covers what goes into a tablet, why you cannot assemble one yourself, and what you can actually customize.
Key Takeaways
- Tablets are manufactured as sealed units with soldered components, so there is no consumer assembly process like there is for desktops or laptops.
- The processor, RAM, and storage are fused to the motherboard at the factory and cannot be swapped out later.
- You can customize a tablet by choosing the right model for your needs, installing custom software, replacing the battery or screen if you have the tools, or adding external storage and peripherals.
- Repairing or modifying a tablet yourself requires specialized equipment like heat guns, pry tools, and replacement parts sourced from third-party vendors.
- If repairability matters to you, research which tablets have user-replaceable batteries or easier disassembly before you buy.
Why tablets are not built like computers
A desktop PC has a motherboard with slots for RAM, a socket for the CPU, and bays for storage drives. A laptop has similar architecture, though components are soldered more often. A tablet has none of these. The processor — whether it is an Apple A17 Pro, a Qualcomm Snapdragon, or a Samsung Exynos — is permanently attached to the main circuit board. The RAM sits next to it, also soldered. Storage is either soldered flash memory or a non-removable module. The battery is glued to the case and wired directly to the power management circuit.
This design exists because tablets are thin, light, and made in high volume. Removable components require connectors, which add thickness and weight. Soldering everything down lets manufacturers pack more into less space and build at lower cost. It also means the tablet is sealed — water resistance, dust resistance, and structural rigidity all improve when there are no removable parts.
The trade-off is that you cannot upgrade a tablet after you buy it. You choose the storage size, RAM amount, and processor when you purchase, and those specs stay fixed for the life of the device.
What components go into a tablet and what you should know about each
Processor (System-on-Chip): A tablet's CPU, GPU, and neural processing unit are all on one chip. Apple uses its own A-series chips. Android tablets use Qualcomm Snapdragon, Samsung Exynos, or MediaTek processors. The processor handles speed, graphics, and AI tasks. You choose it by picking a tablet model — you cannot swap it out. Newer processors are faster and more power-efficient, so a current-year model will outperform an older one.
RAM: Tablets typically have 4 GB to 12 GB of RAM depending on the model and price. More RAM helps when you run many apps at once or edit video. RAM is soldered to the motherboard and cannot be upgraded. Check the RAM amount before you buy if multitasking matters to you.
Storage: Tablets come with 64 GB, 128 GB, 256 GB, or more of built-in storage. This is soldered flash memory and cannot be upgraded on most models. Some Android tablets have microSD card slots, which let you add external storage, but iPads do not. Choose your storage size at purchase time.
Display: Tablet screens are laminated to the case and glued in place. Replacing a cracked screen requires disassembly, heat tools, and a replacement panel from a parts vendor. Apple and Samsung sell official screens; third-party replacements are cheaper but may have lower color accuracy or brightness. The display is not something you choose during assembly — it comes with the model you buy.
Battery: Tablets have large lithium-ion batteries glued into the case. They cannot be removed without disassembly. Most tablets have a 5,000 mAh to 10,000 mAh battery. Capacity is fixed at purchase. After two to three years, the battery may hold less charge, and you can replace it if you have the tools and a replacement battery, but this is not a user-friendly process.
Motherboard: The main circuit board holds the processor, RAM, storage, power management, and wireless radios. It is custom-designed for each tablet model and cannot be swapped or upgraded.
How to choose a tablet that fits what you need
Since you cannot assemble or upgrade a tablet, the decision happens at purchase. Start by deciding what you will use it for. If you read books, browse the web, and watch video, a mid-range tablet with 4 GB RAM and 128 GB storage is enough. If you edit photos, run design software, or play demanding games, choose a newer model with more RAM and a faster processor.
Next, decide on size. Tablets range from 7 inches to 13 inches. Smaller tablets are lighter and cheaper; larger ones are better for reading and creative work. iPad Pro models are 11 inches and 12.9 inches. Samsung Galaxy Tab S models come in 11-inch and 14-inch sizes. Amazon Fire tablets are 7 to 10 inches and cost less.
Check whether repairability matters to you. Some Android tablets have removable batteries or easier-to-open cases. iPads are harder to repair. If you plan to keep a tablet for five years or more, look at repair guides on iFixit or similar sites to see how hard it is to replace the battery or screen.
Finally, consider the ecosystem. iPad runs iOS and works best with other Apple devices. Android tablets work with any Android phone and offer more customization. Choose based on what you already own and what software you need.
What you can customize after you buy a tablet
Software: You can install apps, change the home screen layout, set up custom keyboards, and adjust system settings. On Android, you can install a custom launcher or even flash a custom ROM if you are comfortable with technical steps. On iPad, you have less freedom but still control which apps run and how notifications work.
External storage: If your tablet has a microSD card slot, you can add a 128 GB, 256 GB, or larger card for photos, videos, and files. iPads do not have this option.
Accessories: You can add a keyboard case, stylus, screen protector, or external speakers. These do not change the tablet itself but extend what it can do.
Battery replacement: If the battery degrades after a few years, you can replace it yourself with the right tools (heat gun, pry tools, replacement battery) or pay a repair shop to do it. This is not a quick process and voids any remaining warranty.
Screen replacement: A cracked or damaged screen can be replaced, but it requires disassembly, heat tools, and a new display panel. Official replacements from Apple or Samsung are expensive; third-party panels are cheaper but may not match the original quality.
Tools and parts you need if you want to repair or modify a tablet
If you decide to open a tablet and replace the battery or screen, you will need specialized equipment. A heat gun or heat pad softens the adhesive holding the case together. Plastic pry tools and spudgers let you open the case without damaging it. A screwdriver set with small bits removes internal screws. Tweezers help you disconnect and reconnect ribbon cables. Isopropyl alcohol and a cloth remove old adhesive.
Replacement parts come from vendors like iFixit, Amazon, or eBay. Official parts from Apple or Samsung are more expensive but may provide to work. Third-party batteries and screens are cheaper but may have lower quality or shorter lifespan. Before you buy parts, watch a repair video for your specific tablet model to see exactly what you need and how difficult the job is.
Opening a tablet yourself voids the warranty and risks damaging internal components if you are not careful. If you are not comfortable with the process, a repair shop can do it for you, though the cost may be high.
Tablets designed for easier repair and customization
A few tablet models are easier to work on than others. Some Samsung Galaxy Tab models have removable batteries or less aggressive adhesive. The iPad Air is slightly easier to open than the iPad Pro, though still not simple. The Fairphone tablet (when it becomes available) is designed with repairability in mind and will have user-replaceable components.
If repairability is important to you, check iFixit's repairability scores before you buy. A score of 6 or higher means the tablet can be opened and repaired with common tools. A score of 3 or lower means it is difficult and risky to open.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I upgrade the RAM or storage in a tablet after I buy it?
No. RAM and storage are soldered to the motherboard and cannot be removed or swapped. You must choose the storage size and RAM amount when you purchase the tablet. Some Android tablets have microSD card slots for external storage, but iPads do not.
What is the difference between a tablet and a laptop if I want to build one?
Laptops have removable or upgradeable components in some models — you can sometimes add RAM or swap the storage drive. Tablets have everything soldered down and sealed in the case. If you want to customize hardware, a laptop is a better choice.
Can I replace the battery in a tablet myself?
Yes, but it requires a heat gun, pry tools, and a replacement battery. You must carefully heat and peel away the adhesive, disconnect the old battery, and glue in the new one. It is time-consuming and risky if you are not experienced. A repair shop can do it for you, though the cost is usually $100 to $300.
Is it worth repairing a cracked tablet screen?
It depends on the tablet's age and value. If the tablet is new or expensive, a screen replacement may be worth the cost. If it is old or inexpensive, buying a new tablet might be cheaper. Official screen replacements from Apple or Samsung cost $200 to $400. Third-party replacements cost $50 to $150 but may have lower quality.
What tablet should I buy if I want something I can repair easily?
Check iFixit's repairability scores before you buy. Samsung Galaxy Tab models generally score higher than iPads. The upcoming Fairphone tablet is designed for easy repair. Avoid the thinnest, newest models — they tend to be glued shut and harder to open.